Harley-Davidson Sportster S 2025: 60% more comfort, really?

Purists were waiting for it, and Harley-Davidson finally delivered: a Sportster S with a little more comfort! Well, “a little” means a 60% increase in travel in the rear suspension. In other words, the American brand listened to riders tired of every bump being a test of endurance for their backs. But does this adjustment really change things?

A collision of generations

When Harley launched its new Sportster S in 2021, it was a total revolution. It left behind the “rustic but endearing” mechanics to introduce an ultra-modern water-cooled v-twin, equipped with state-of-the-art electronics and an aesthetic that blends the best of a power cruiser with a muscular roadster. What was the result? A total impact, both for fans and for those who discovered the model. The opinion was divided: you either love it or hate it.

One of the main complaints was its discomfort. An extremely rigid suspension and a chassis that felt like a board, enough to turn every bump into a torture session.

A suspension that changes everything (or almost everything)

So Harley listened to the criticisms and launched an update for 2025: +60% travel in the rear suspension. Good news? Yes, because the bike should be a bit more “livable” day to day. Bad news? Don’t expect a plush ride on clouds. The ground clearance remains at 90 mm, so if you were planning to hop curbs like a supermotard, forget it.

On paper, the seat height remains at 765 mm. So there’s no concern for those who appreciated its accessibility. But be careful, a greater travel doesn’t always mean a smoothing like a trail. We’ll need to test it to see if the bike’s characteristic rigidity has really softened.

An engine that does not change (and that is good news)

As for the engine, Harley-Davidson achieved a small miracle: complying with Euro5+ regulations without losing performance. So we keep the Revolution Max 1250, a twin producing 121 hp at 7,500 rpm and 125 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. A true torque machine that accelerates powerfully when you twist the throttle. And if you were wondering if this robust engine comes with a price increase, surprise, it does not! The price remains at €17,790. A small miracle in these times of general inflation.